Nokia has signed a memorandum of understanding with blackned GmbH to co-develop advanced deployable tactical networks to provide secure and high-performance connectivity on the battlefield.
The collaboration combines its 5G tactical communications technology with blackned’s defense-focused digital platforms to build modular communication systems tailored to Germany’s armed forces and adaptable for use in other countries. Nokia said the goal is to improve decision-making, situational awareness and coordination among military assets.
Empowering Defense Forces With 5G
“In a rapidly evolving tactical environment, speed, mobility and adaptability are paramount,” Giuseppe Targia, head of Nokia’s space and defense unit, said in a statement. “Through the partnership with blackned, our 5G technology will empower defense forces to deploy robust communication capabilities swiftly and share intelligence more effectively, providing our customers with a decisive advantage on the battlefield.”
Based in Heimertingen, Germany, blackned is majority-owned by Rheinmetall and specializes in software-based defense solutions. Its offerings include the TACTICAL CORE digital ecosystem, which underpins the Rheinmetall Battlesuite and offers a future-ready, open framework for digital transformation across NATO-aligned armed forces.
The Nokia-blackned partnership is the latest in a series of strategic partnerships by the Finnish telecommunications giant. In March, Nokia teamed up with Honeywell Aerospace Technologies and Canadian tech accelerator Numana to promote quantum-safe networks. Earlier, Nokia also signed an agreement with EDGE Group’s KATIM subsidiary to co-develop secure 5G solutions tailored for the United Arab Emirates’ defense communications needs.